Health of older adults 'jeopardised' by failing social care system

The health of older adults in the UK is being put at risk by a failing social care system, according to industry experts.

Age UK and the British Geriatrics Society are warning that the financial pressure placed on the NHS by the inability of the underfunded care system to cope with demand is threatening the health of patients.

When many older adults are discharged from hospital they still require a degree of after care, traditionally offered by the social care system.

However, a lack of monetary support from the government means that many services are unable to cope with demand and older adults are often sent home before they are ready.

Thus, many return to hospital because health problems develop through lack of care

According to Ian Donald, consultant geriatrician and social care lead, this situation could be avoided if there was greater stability and resources in the social care sector.

Age UK charity director general Michelle Mitchell commented: "Age UK and the British Geriatrics Society are seeing a generation of very vulnerable people whose health is suffering because they are not getting enough care at home."